“I love Japanese food, it was my first love. I started preparing it at the age of 18 and for a long time I wanted to open a place where everything I like is served, not just sushi,” says Narda Lepes after the opening of Kona Corner , the new restaurant/bar that she shares with her friend, the bartender Inés de los Santos.The third leg of the project is Pablo Chinen, sushiman and chef with a long history, who adds Japanese expertise.
Downstairs is the restaurant, very well decorated, with a bar that overlooks the large open kitchen; and upstairs is the bar, intimate and sophisticated, where you can drink a cocktail and snack on sushi or small plates. Inés’ cocktails are impeccable, with clarified drinks with Japanese touches, such as Shiso water (vodka, shiso water, toasted sesame and lychee juice); and PinkuBall (gin, grape and lemongrass cordial, tincture of palo santo and sparkling wine).
Cooking card is a Japanese festival. In addition to authentic sushi, without Nikkei fantasies, with rice at temperature and fresh fish; there are dishes to share at the center of the table such as the roasted squid with peas, edamame, herbs, butter and soy, the artisanal cold tofu (full-bodied, very creamy, served with a series of toppings), and addictive gyosas “ glued” on a showy crunchy fabric, among others. There are also cuisine dishes such as fish nabe or tofu (Japanese grandmother’s stew); and grilled meats (yes, it’s also a very Japanese thing). For dessert, black sesame panna cotta with blueberries and puffed rice, with an impressive flavor and presentation.
At noon the proposal is the teishoku. Different small dishes are served on a small tray, including tsukemono (pickled vegetables), white rice, miso soup (nothing more comforting for the soul and body, and this one is terrific), to mix or eat in any order you like. There are variants with sushi, proteins, or with cooking dishes.
Coverage includes fukusai (small dishes of raw, cooked, or pickled vegetables), filtered water, and seasonal fruit. At night, before or after eating, it is essential to go to the bar.
